According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, deputies…

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, deputies responded to the area of South James St and Muck Rd in the City of Rome, regarding an unoccupied kayak found in the Erie Canal, reported by a passerby. It was discovered that a single person orange kayak was located near the center of the Erie Canal, along with a backpack and oars. The oars were initialed E.W.H. Due to the severity of the situation, the investigation was turned over to members of the Criminal Investigation Unit and Forensic Identification Unit. The OCSO Marine Patrol Unit and OCSO Dive Team responded to the scene to assist with a search. A search of the Erie Canal was completed for a possible missing kayaker, with negative results. Rome Fire also conducted a spotlight/thermal search of the area, via drone with negative results. The Oneida County Sheriff's Office is seeking assistance from the public regarding this investigation. If anyone has any information, please contact the OCSO Criminal Investigations Unit at 315-765-2226.

The Oneida County Sheriff's Office was assisted on scene by members of the OCSO Marine Patrol Unit, OCSO Dive Team, Rome Police Department, Rome Fire and Amcare Ambulance.